Chromogranin a test

CHROMOGRANIN A TEST

DESCRIPTION – the chromogranin A test is used as a tumor marker. It may be ordered alone or in combination with a 5-HIAA test to help diagnose carcinoid tumors. CgA may also be used to detect the presence of other tumors arising from neuroendocrine cells.

METHODOLOGY – immunofluorescence

TURN AROUND TIME – 1-5 days

SPECIMEN REQIERED –

COLLECT – serum separator tube or plain red

SPECIMEN PREPARATION – allow specimen to clot completely at room temperature. Transfer 1 ml of serum to transport tube

STORAGE/TRANSPORT TEMPERATURE – frozen

STABILITY – ambient: 48 hours; refrigerated: 3 days; frozen: 4 weeks

UNACCEPTABLE CONDITION – plasma

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS – clinical history is mandatory